Director Pathology

Director Of Pathology And Biodistribution

We are looking for an accomplished toxicologic pathologist and inspiring people leader to define the future of pathology, investigative pathology, and biodistribution at our San Diego site. In this highly visible role, you will build capabilities that turn complex tissue and molecular data into clear, decisive narratives—shaping program strategy, elevating scientific standards, and enabling the next wave of transformative medicines.

You will operate at the intersection of biology, technology, and decision-making—pioneering modern approaches (IHC/ISH, digital and spatial pathology, and integrated -omics) and translating insight into action with speed, rigor, and credibility.

Key Responsibilities:

• Build and inspire multidisciplinary teams across pathology, investigative/molecular pathology, and biodistribution—creating a culture of scientific excellence, collaboration, and talent growth.
• Establish next-generation scientific standards for non-GLP/GLP execution, reporting, and data integrity—ensuring consistent, decision-grade outputs that are inspection-ready.
• Serve as the site scientific authority for pathology and biodistribution: anticipate and define target-organ liabilities, build pathogenesis/MoA narratives, and translate uncertainty into clear, risk-based recommendations.
• Architect the investigative pathology strategy (IHC, ISH/RNAscope, digital and spatial pathology, and -omics) that connects tissue biology to target engagement, safety signals, and translational relevance.
• Shape portfolio decisions through governance and matrix leadership—bringing crisp, evidence-based storytelling that guides go/no-go decisions, mitigation strategies, and development plans.
• Lead innovation—accelerating insight generation and setting a vision for how pathology enables modern drug development.

Essential Requirements:

• DVM/MD (or equivalent) with formal pathology training and 15+ years in toxicologic pathology; or PhD and/or board certification (e.g., DACVP or equivalent) with 10+ years in toxicologic pathology.
• Demonstrated people leadership (coaching, talent development, performance management, and team building).
• Strong interpretive capability across toxicologic pathology, molecular pathology, and biodistribution, with a track record of translating findings into high-quality reports and regulatory documentation.
• Scientific credibility demonstrated through publications and/or presentations.
• Pharmaceutical/biotech industry experience across discovery through development (early phase to registration).

Desirable Requirements:

• Deep expertise in investigative pathology design and interpretation (IHC, ISH/RNAscope, digital pathology, spatial profiling).
• Ability to synthesize complex molecular datasets (RNA-seq, proteomics, spatial transcriptomics) in the context of tissue biology and pathology.
• Strong cross-functional influence and comfort operating in governance forums and matrixed teams.
• Commitment to scientific rigor, clear data storytelling, and continuous improvement.

The salary for this position is expected to range between: $204,400-$379,600/year.

The final salary offered is determined based on factors like, but not limited to, relevant skills and experience, and upon joining Novartis will be reviewed periodically. Novartis may change the published salary range based on company and market factors. Your compensation will include a performance-based cash incentive and, depending on the level of the role, eligibility to be considered for annual equity awards.

US-based eligible employees will receive a comprehensive benefits package that includes health, life and disability benefits, a 401(k) with company contribution and match, and a variety of other benefits. In addition, employees are eligible for a generous time off package including vacation, personal days, holidays and other leaves.

To learn more about the culture, rewards and benefits we offer our people click here.

EEO Statement:

The Novartis Group of Companies are Equal Opportunity Employers. We do not discriminate in recruitment, hiring, training, promotion or other employment practices for reasons of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital or veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status.

Accessibility and reasonable accommodations

The Novartis Group of Companies are committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities. If, because of a medical condition or disability, you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application process, or to perform the essential functions of a position, please send an e-mail to View email address on click.appcast.io or call View phone number on click.appcast.io and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Please include the job requisition number in your message.

Skills Desired

• Analytical Thinking, Bioinformatics, Clinical Data Management, Communication, Critical Thinking, Data Analysis, Detail-Oriented, Drug Discovery Process, Ethics, Group Problem Solving, Laboratory, Leadership, Life Science, Medical Research, Organization, People Management, Regulatory Compliance, Report Writing, Strategic Thinking, Team Management, Technical Skills, Time Management, Toxicology, Training, Waterfall Model